Following the Paris Agreement in COP21 at the end of 2015, the UK has joined global targets to prevent the rise of global average temperature above 2°C above pre-industrial levels, with the ambition to limit this increase to 1.5°C. It is clear that to meet these targets, the UK and its flooring industry has a lot to do in playing its part. At the same time, it is important to celebrate the strides that have been taken in the progression towards a circular economy.

This timeline of regulations and resources is designed to encourage precisely that, providing insights to support businesses navigating industry changes, as well as allowing you to identify gaps that still need further work to be addressed. The timeline is not exhaustive, but rather shows some highlights from the Paris Agreement to the present day and onwards that are relevant to all of us in the flooring industry. Future dates are not guaranteed but are anticipated based on current working deadlines and contingent on significant factors that are liable to change, including the political direction of the Government following the upcoming general election.

Since the word “sustainability” has itself grown to cover the full spectrum of environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors, this timeline takes a holistic approach to sustainability. Not only should we be asking vital questions about the climate crisis, carbon emissions and biodiversity but we are also striving for improvements in physical and mental wellbeing – with the support of organisations such as the Health and Safety Executive. This timeline celebrates the diversity of sustainable actions in the wide range of business types and sizes across the contract flooring industry.

December 2015 – the UK adopted the Paris Agreement alongside 195 other Parties at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP21), which entered into force on 4th November 2016. Its goal is to hold “the increase in the global average temperature to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels” and pursue efforts “to limit the temperature increase to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels.”
April 2019 – the Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) was introduced in London as a means to improve air quality and discourage carbon emissions. The zone initially covered just central London and was expanded across the entire city on 29th August 2023. It requires that petrol cars and vans must be Euro 4 and diesel cars and vans must be Euro 6 to avoid the £12.50 daily charge. Larger vehicles over 3.5 tonnes (including some vans, lorries and specialist vehicles) do not need to pay the ULEZ charge, however are still subject to any relevant LEZ charges. Drivers who do not pay the ULEZ charge will face a fine of up to £180.

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